Thai legend Thongchai Jaidee hopes to return to winning ways when he headlines the US$500,000 Royal Cup which gets underway on Thursday.

The 48-year-old Thai hopes to end a title drought since his last professional win two years ago in France. The last time he tasted success on home soil was in 2006, and he is relishing the opportunity to contend for the prestigious trophy against the young and upcoming Asian Tour stars at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club.

The Royal Cup will be Thongchai’s first tournament in Thailand this season after playing mostly in Europe where he enjoyed one top-10 result.

Defending champion Shiv Kapur returns to his favourite hunting ground where he won the Royal Cup last year for his third victory in 2017. He admits that he is struggling to find his best form as he is still recuperating from tendinitis in his right wrist.

Young Thai Phachara Khongwatmai is hoping to shine in front of the home crowd. He is working with his new coach Jamie, and will adopt a patient approach as he searches for a first Asian Tour title.

The Royal Cup is held in conjunction with His Majesty King Rama X’s 66th birthday which falls on Saturday.